Former Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino has reflected on his spell in England after a rather unsuccessful time at St James’ Park.
Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino has done superbly well in La Liga since his move to the Spanish side after his spell at Newcastle United under Rafa Benitez.
Arsenal are one of the sides who have been linked with the midfielder who’s contract is set to expire in 2025 and Sociedad have had no luck extending the midfielder’s stay at San Sebastian.
The Geordie side have certainly come on leaps and bounds since the Spaniard departed St James’ Park and he has reflected on his time in England.
Merino on his love for Newcastle fans
Merino has been speaking during his spell with the Spanish national team at Euro 2024 and was asked to reflect on his spell in England.
“Very good,” Merino told Faro De Vigo. “What marked me the most in Newcastle was the stadium, the fans. I think it was a unique life, feeling what St James’ Park is, I will always have it in my heart and mind because it is something unique.
“Get a ball in your area and people go crazy shouting as if you were about to score a goal, and I said ‘let’s see, there are 80 metres to there and they are 11 ahead. It is impossible for us to score a goal’. But people believed it and encouraged you to move forward.”
Last season for Sociedad, Merino scored five goals and provided five assists in La Liga but as mentioned his future is uncertain.
Merino opens up on future at Real Sociedad amid Arsenal links
A report from Mundo Deportivo has linked Barcelona with a move for the Spaniard but Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have also been credited with an interest.
Merino was asked about his future in Spain, he said: “If there is one thing I am happy about throughout this journey, it is that the steps I have taken in my career have been perfect and at the right time to continue growing as a footballer who has undergone a growth process. And I don’t want it to end.”
Arsenal are keen on Martin Zubimendi but HITC has reported that Martin Zubimendi is a top target for the Gunners but they are prepared to walk away from a deal.
This could lead the club to pivoting their plans and Merino is one name linked.
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